Spain and Portugal Battle Record Wildfires Amid Heatwave Crisis

Spain and Portugal are grappling with extensive wildfires fueled by an intense heatwave that has led to widespread evacuations and the deployment of emergency crews, Euro News has reported. In Spain, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez visited affected areas in Ourense and Leon to meet with emergency response leaders, accompanied by Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska.

Addressing the press, Sanchez described the situation as a critical period, assuring that the government will provide necessary assistance, including an additional 500 military personnel. He noted that this operation represents possibly the largest mobilization in European civil protection history. Moreover, Sanchez announced a proposal for a national pact to adapt to climate change, indicating his itinerary includes further visits to impacted regions.

Severe temperatures have triggered numerous fires, notably in Galicia, Leon, and Caceres, with local sources noting 13 active blazes. Over 115,000 hectares, including 50,000 in Galicia's Ourense, have burned. More than 13,600 State Security Forces members are engaged in firefighting efforts, and 575 residents in Salamanca have been evacuated, as reported by Euro News.

Forecasts suggest temperatures will remain high until Monday, potentially soaring beyond 44°C, per Spain's meteorological agency. In Portugal, 3,200 firefighters are combatting major fires, mostly in Arganil and Satão. The country has witnessed extensive land destruction since July, with provisional data suggesting 139,000 hectares burned - a drastic increase from last year. A recent flare-up has been particularly devastating, with significant fires erupting over just two days.

Portugal's predicament prompted the government to seek aid through the EU's civil protection mechanism. Reinforcements include two Fire Boss aircraft, expected on Monday, as authorities scramble to curb the escalating disaster. Reports highlight at least one fatality and several injuries amid the crisis. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)